Customers came from as far away as Durham and South Wales to be at the opening of Kenilworth's newest pub today (July 29).

Mayor of Kenilworth Cllr James Kennedy cut the ribbon for the opening of The Dictum at Kenilworth at 10am this morning, with the pub already packed having opened its doors earlier.

The Wetherspoon team told Nub News it was "thrilled" with how many people had come to the opening and made positive comments.

From left - Shift leader Siobhan Gohil, area manager Richard Tandy, pub manager Tom Clarke, Cllr Mark Stevens, Mayor of Kenilworth Cllr James Kennedy

While the opening - and the name - have created a huge amount of debate on social media, many customers told Nub News they thought it was a "great addition to the town".

To mark the opening, local artist Diane Shores has produced an eye-catching painting of the pub, which will eventually be put on display inside. Greetings cards with the painting on are available for Castle Home Luxuries.

Several 'Spoons Baggers' - people who are trying to visit as many Wetherspoons as possible - also came down to the opening. One of them, David Bingham has visited a staggering 889 in the chain.

Michelle Williams and pub manager Tom Clarke with artist Diane Shores

The national pub chain first announced it would be coming to the town in July 2022, taking over the vacant Poundland unit at The Square.

Wetherspoon has put some £3.2 million into the new inn - having originally announced a £2 million investment.

After rounds of planning and licencing applications, work on site actually began in early 2025, with the former shop completely transformed into the new pub.

See more images of the inside here.

Inside The Dictum of Kenilworth